IPNEWS: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has officially launched the renovation of the Tellewoyan Referral Hospital, marking a significant milestone in efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery in the region.
The hospital Administrator, Arthureen Tina Nessian, described the project as more than a physical upgrade.
“This renovation is about restoring dignity, improving patient care, and ensuring that every individual who walks through our doors receives treatment in a safe, modern, and compassionate environment,” she said.
Speaking at the launch, Boye Johnson, Interim Programme Manager for the Accelerated Community Development Programme (ACDP), explained the rationale for selecting the Tellewoyan Hospital.
He noted that the ACDP, initially launched in 2022 and co-funded by the Government of Liberia and UNDP, has since expanded to multiple counties, including Gbarpolu, River Cess, Bong, Lofa, and Nimba.
“Earlier this year, UNDP Liberia Resident Representative Aliou Mamadou Dia visited the hospital and pledged support after witnessing its urgent needs firsthand”, Johnson asserted.
He further stated that the renovation—funded by UNDP with over USD 186,000—will focus on critical areas such as the maternity ward, surgical ward, delivery room, and operating theater, including a solar-powered water facility.
“This is about restoring dignity to both patients and staff,” he emphasized.
Dr. Moses Weidehgar, Lofa County Health Officer, thanked UNDP and partners for their support, stressing the importance of sustaining and improving the county’s health system under the government’s ARREST agenda.
District Commissioner David Mawolo praised the initiative, noting that investments in local healthcare will reduce the need for costly medical travel abroad.
He also appealed for expanded Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) programs in Lofa County to ensure residents have access to safe drinking water.
UNDP Liberia Team Leader for Inclusive Governance, Stanley Kamara, highlighted four priority areas identified by the UNDP Resident Representative:
- Repairing the facility
- Equipping it with essential medical tools
- Improving energy access
- Ensuring water availability
Kamara emphasized that the project is a strategic investment to save lives and enhance healthcare in the county.
Representative Thomas A. Goshua of Grand Bassa District #5 and Chairman of the WASH Legislative Caucus commended the collaborative effort and underscored the long-term impact of UNDP and ACDP interventions across Liberia.
Performing the official launch of the Tellewoyan hospital project, Hon. Goshua urged the government to meet its funding commitments to sustain such transformative projects.
Youth leader Prince M. Dorbor hailed the renovation as a landmark development for the community, recognizing the vital role of UNDP, the government, and other partners in improving healthcare services for the people of Lofa County.
The renovation of the Tellewoyan Referral Hospital stands as a symbol of hope, resilience, and progress, laying the foundation for a healthier future for the people of Lofa County and beyond.
